A significant majority of dermatologists (95%) indicated on a recent survey that they would prescribe minocycline — designated for the treatment of acne, rosacea and other skin conditions — for their patients despite the significant side effects associated with the medication.
The results of the survey, which was conducted by the pharmaceutical company Foamix, reveal that physicians are willing to prescribe minocycline but they remain concerned about the side effects; 89.7% of the respondents who reported that they would prescribe the drug were also concerned about adverse reactions. The oral formulation of the drug was added to the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS) in 2009 and is known to cause many side effects, including upset stomach, diarrhea, dizziness and other symptoms. Increased sensitivity to sunlight has also been reported, as well as a link between minocycline and cases of lupus. Rare but serious side effects include fever, yellowing of the eyes or skin, stomach pain, sore throat, vision changes and mental changes.
In regard to the formulation of the drug, more than 75% of 40 total survey respondents agreed that they would rather prescribe patients topical minocycline than the existing oral medication. The oral formulation of the drug was the one that was added to the FDA AERS list in 2009.
Foamix Ltd., the company that manufactures minocycline, reports that a topical formulation of the drug is currently in Phase II clinical trials for the treatment of rosacea and impetigo. A Phase II trial for acne is expected to begin soon.
“There is a huge demand for new safe and effective topical treatments for acne and rosacea,” said Dov Tamarkin, PhD, CEO of Foamix. “Based on its pharmacological profile, topical minocycline represents a strong alternative to the existing oral and topical acne and rosacea drugs.”
